best cities and places to visit in switzerland 3 days from italy i will go in september self drive

For a 3-day self-drive trip from Italy to Switzerland in September, the best route focuses on the Ticino and Central Switzerland regions. September is the 'Golden Season'—mountain passes are still open, the summer crowds have thinned, and you may witness traditional Alpine cattle descents (Alpabzug).

Top 3-Day Scenic Itinerary: Lakes & High Alps

This route starts from Northern Italy (Milan/Lake Como) and hits Switzerland's most iconic landscapes.

• Day 1: Departure from Italy to Lugano & Bellinzona

  • Drive: Cross the border at Chiasso (near Como).
  • Morning: Explore Lugano, Switzerland’s sunniest city. Walk the lakeside promenade or take the funicular up to Monte San Salvatore for panoramic views.
  • Afternoon: Drive 30 minutes to Bellinzona, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its three medieval castles (Castelgrande is the most accessible).
  • Stay: Bellinzona or Locarno.

• Day 2: The St. Gotthard Pass to Lucerne

  • Drive: Skip the long San Bernardino tunnel and take the St. Gotthard Pass road. It’s one of the most famous drives in Europe, featuring dramatic hairpins and the historic 'Tremola' cobblestone section.
  • Stop: Pause at the top of the pass for photos of the rugged granite peaks.
  • Afternoon: Arrive in Lucerne. Walk the Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) and explore the Old Town.
  • Stay: Lucerne.

• Day 3: Mount Titlis & Scenic Return via Valle Verzasca

  • Morning: Drive to Engelberg (45 mins) and take the rotating cable car to the summit of Mt. Titlis for year-round snow and glacier views.
  • Afternoon: Drive south toward Italy. If time permits, detour into Valle Verzasca to see the stunning emerald waters and the 'Bridge of Jumps' (Ponte dei Salti) in Lavertezzo.
  • Evening: Cross back into Italy via Lake Maggiore/Stresa.

Alternative: The High Alpine Loop (St. Moritz)

If you prefer high-altitude glamour over cities, drive through Chiavenna (Italy) and up the Maloja Pass into St. Moritz.

• Highlights: The winding Maloja serpentine road, the luxury of St. Moritz, and the Bernina Pass (which runs alongside the famous red train).

Practical Tips for Self-Driving in Switzerland

• Swiss Motorway Vignette: You MUST have a toll sticker (Vignette) to drive on Swiss highways. It costs 40 CHF and can be purchased at the border, gas stations, or online (e-vignette).
• Mountain Passes: In September, all major passes (Furka, Grimsel, Susten) are typically open. However, check TCS Traffic for real-time status as early snow can occasionally cause temporary closures.
• Car-Free Zones: If you decide to visit Zermatt, you cannot drive into the village. You must park your car in the large terminal at Täsch and take the 12-minute shuttle train.
• Cross-Border Rentals: If you are renting a car in Italy and dropping it off in Switzerland, be prepared for high one-way fees. It is usually much cheaper to do a round-trip or take the train to Lugano and rent locally.

Why September?

• Alpine Festivals: Mid-to-late September is when 'Chästeilet' (cheese sharing) festivals occur, where farmers divide cheese produced in the mountains.
• Weather: Expect crisp, clear days (15–20°C in valleys) and perfect visibility for mountain photography.